Lotus Temple – The Bahai Temple in Delhi

In a country of more than a billion people where close to 70% people are Hindus and nearly 28% adhere to Islam, the Bahá’í form only a small community, less than five million. Despite their small numbers, the followers of this one of the newest religions in the world have built one of the largest temples in the world which due to its magnificent architectural design has compelled many to term it as “the Taj [Mahal] of modern India.” Officially known as the Bahai House of Worship, this structure in New Delhi is more famous as the Lotus Temple or the Bahai Temple, because of its partly-opened Lotus shaped praying hall. It’s one of the six major Bahai houses of worship in the world. The other five are in Apia, Western Samoa; Sydney, Australia; Kampala, Uganda; Panama City, Panama; Frankfurt, Germany and Wilmette, USA.

Architecture of the Lotus Temple

Award Winning Canadian architect Arthur Erickson has described the architecture of the Lotus Temple as “one of the most remarkable achievements of our time, proving that the drive and vision of spirit can achieve miracles.” The temple is so excellently designed that it’s discernible at a distance of more than a kilometre at night. The 27-petal, half-opened lotus is surrounded by delicately kept lawns and nine pools. The 40 m tall temple was opened to worshippers on 24 December 1986. Since then it has attracted over 70 million people. Currently an estimated 10,000 people visit the temple everyday. The base of the lotus spans approximately 70 m and the hall inside can accommodate over 1,300 people.

The Bahai Religion

Bahai Symbol

One of the most remarkable things about the temple is that although it’s been made by the Bahá’í community, the temple is open to worshippers from all over the world irrespective of their religion, nationality, ethnicity or colour. A 19th century Iranian spiritual leader named Bahá’u’lláh is the founder of the faith which recognises Moses, Buddha, Jesus, Mohammed and now Bahá’u’lláh as one of the messengers of god. Bahá’u’lláh took traditions from Abrahamic religions and combined them with Eastern religions to create this new faith. There are an estimated five to six million Bahá’ís in the world, of whom 3.6 million live in Asia. The Bahá’ís call theirs a global religion. The core believes are: monotheism, oneness of religions and oneness of mankind.

Bahaullah, the founder of Bahai Religion

Portrait of ‘Abdul-Baha taken in Paris, France, October 1911

Bahá’u’lláh was born in Iran in 1817. As a young man he was deeply impressed by a new religious movement in Iran known as Bábism. The moment didn’t differentiate between humans as regarded them all as a big family. Bahá’u’lláh deeply believed in it, declared himself a prophet and that that the time had come for the humans to unite. He was exiled for his beliefs. He went to Palestine where he died at the age of 74.

Panorama View of the Lotus Temple, the Baha’i House of Worship

The Lotus Temple in the 21st century

In the 21st century the temple serves as much a place of worship as a famous tourist destination. According to some estimates it’s one of the most visited buildings in the world. In 2002, more people flocked at the Lotus Temple during that year than at any other building excluding the Eiffel Tower and the Taj Mahal.

Lotus Temple Address:

Bahá’í House of Worship
Bahapur, Kalkaji
New Delhi – 110019

Lotus Temple Visiting Hours

Winter: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm
Summer: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

 Enjoy the Lotus Temple in Delhi

Why not to use Delhi Metro during the coronavirus pandemic

At the moment the whole world is fighting the Covid-19 pandemic. It is best to avoid all public transport if you can. It does not make sense to enter places that have large gathering of people. The metro can be very crowded with limited ventilation. Also the surfaces within the stations and trains are prone to being touched by hundreds of people which is a major source of infection.

Keep an eye on the Delhi Metro website here http://www.delhimetrorail.com

If you are visiting Delhi, then my suggestion is that you avoid Delhi metro even when it reopens. If you must, then you should wear face masks that has at least 3 layers. These facemasks not only protect others but prevents air droplets getting through your mouth and nose and infecting you with the coronavirus.

In such a situation, the best is to use a car or a taxi. This will limit the number of people you will come in contact with. When renting a private hire car in Delhi, you must ensure that the vehicle is sanitized before you get into the car.

The best way to confirm this is over the phone with the cab-hire company and with the driver before you step in the car. This ensures that you are minimising the risk of infection.

When you reach your destination, make sure that you use a hand sanitiser to clean your hands if you can’t get hold of soap and water.

When travelling make sure:

That you carry a hand sanitiser
Maintain appropriate social distancing
Cover your mouth and nose
Do not touch surfaces
Do not touch your mouth and nose or try to adjust your mask

So remember there are plenty of car on rent in Delhi for outstation and in-city trips and using them reduces chances of exposure to coronavirus. Be safe.

Beware of child abduction in India

India is a fun place but if your child is kidnapped all the fizz would just disappear from your life forever. If you happen to travel to India, you need to be careful with your children and keep an eye on them.

As a parent myself, I need to tell you about the child kidnapping industry in India. Tourists and Indian residents alike are venerable to child kidnapping. Although something like this can happen anywhere in the world as in the case of Madeleine Mccann. Madeleine Mccann was abducted by an unknown person on the evening of 3 May 2007 while holidaying with her parents in the Algarve of Portugal and has still not been found. Similarly, as a parent you too need to take utmost care of your child when holidaying in India.

Child kidnapping industry in India

Missing children in India

About 11 children are kidnapped in India every hour of the day of which half of them are never found. Child trafficking is the third largest profitable industry of the world and India seems to be in the thick of it. India is not only the source, but a destination and transit point for this heinous crime.

Your guess to what happens to these abducted children is as good as mine. Please read them to understand why kidnapping of children takes place.

Kidnapped children used as camel jockeys in Middle East

Why children are abducted

To be used as prostitutes; the biggest reasons for child abduction,

Child abuse and sexual exploitation,

Used as light weight camel jockeys in Arabic nations,

Organ trade and harvesting,

Ransom, as the Indian economy booms so does rise in child abduction,

A case of cannibalism has also been reported,

Human sacrifice to please the gods,

Used as forced labour, domestic servants, work in factories

Used as beggers by gangs after hands and legs are chopped off (read about beggars in India),

Child trafficking to international borders,

Forced into marriages,

Illegal adoption,

Medical trials; yes it does happen

Shipped and used as child soldiers in other countries to fight.

Kidnapping of your child is something that you must be careful of when travelling in India. The worst places for child kidnapping include;

Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu have the largest number of people trafficked. Trafficking is also high in Rajasthan, Assam, Meghalaya, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Maharashtra.

Some child safety tips while in holidaying in India

Tell your children not to wander off,

Ask them not to talk to strangers,

Carry your child’s hair for DNA identification,

Don’t make them wear provocative clothing that may appear attractive older men,

Make sure your child knows their name and address, contacts in India,

Always keep an eye on your child,

If you are on the Indian Railways, make sure you don’t completely go to sleep. Many children are

kidnapped while both parents are sleeping. Watch the video below.

Instruct your child to “yell” when they think that they are being abducted. The Indian general public is very respondent in such matters. A crowd will quickly accumulate and might even beat the abductor.

Child abduction – Real story with English subtitles 

A personal story

When I was a child of three years, me and my parents had gone to Kathmandu in neighbouring country of Nepal. Nepal is a beautiful country with identical culture and language. Indians often travel to Nepal for shopping and site seeing.

While my mum was shopping in a “saree shop”, I wandered out of the shop several meters away. I quickly realised that I was lost and did not know where my mum was. I started crying and some Nepalese students took me and started to take me to the police station. En route, I saw my dad in a road side garage getting his car fixed. I shouted out to him and came immediately. He asked the boys to give his child to him which they refused and took us all to the police station. There the matter was sorted and I was returned.

Now if I had been in the wrong hands of child kidnappers, I would have been easily been kidnapped and god knows what would have happened.

Moral of the story is, keep an eye on your child, and instruct them not to walk away from you, hold their hands all the time. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

A child being abducted on CCTV of Mumbai station

A man was caught abducting a small girl seen in a series of CCTV footages. You can see in this video that a man sits close to a sleeping family on the railway platform and then in a flash gets up and walks away with the child. It’s that easy. That is why you need to alert and cautious when travelling in India.

Beware of child abduction in India

This article is not to frighten or scare you away from India but to alert you that kidnapping and abduction of children do happen. Just be safe, child abduction does happen.

How to Plan for Your Next Travel Adventure (After Covid-19)

While the majority of us are currently being forced to stay at home in lockdown, and many of us have had to cancel our vacations and/or reschedule, so it’s no surprise that we’re feeling a bit blue. However, it’s been proven that planning for the future can boost your mood by a significant amount. What’s more, a recent study found that almost one-quarter of people are currently looking for places to travel to once the restrictions have been lifted. We think this sounds like a grand idea, so have put together of things to keep in mind as you plan for your next travel adventure after Covid-19.

Assess Your Risk Tolerance

Speak to any travel experts, and they’ll tell you that the travel industry will rebound from the pandemic quickly; certainly far quicker than most people currently expect. Despite the challenges currently faced by airlines and cruise companies, it won’t be this way forever. Industry experts like John Lovell, president of the Travel Leaders Group, have pointed out that the travel industry has rebounded quickly from other pandemics, and also from national disasters. While assessing your risk tolerance level is important before booking a trip, we should see some amazing deals to destinations all over the world once this is over. Just make sure to plan smart and take reasonable precautions.

Consider Where to Visit

Covid-19 has impacted countries across the globe, with some reaching the peak earlier than others.  It’s fair to assume that the countries that have already seen a peak in cases will be the ones to see restrictions listed first. So, rather than looking at a trip to Southeast Africa, or Asia, for example, it may be better to consider traveling to somewhere in Europe, or even somewhere in your own country.  Many travelers may prefer to enjoy the safety of home, with road trips and staycations a great option for many. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a warmer climate, though. There’s no reason those living in Seattle, Washington can’t take a long, leisurely road trip down to Florida or Tucson AZ. Just make sure to factor in the time change to your sleeping schedule and have a plan for if you need to return home early.

Focus on Value

It’s likely that there will be a lot of tempting travel deals available once the pandemic is over, but experts suggest looking for those that offer value as opposed to cheap prices. Deals that come with packaged flights and meals included are going to offer much more than a cheap airline ticket.  It’s also best to opt for packages with travel operators that you know and trust. Sales that sound too-good-to-be-true could be coming from those trying to stave off bankruptcy, which could lead to more problems in your future. Financially stable, well-known brands are those you want to travel with.

Purchase Travel Insurance

Finally, travel insurance is important anyway, but it’s going to be even more critical in the aftermath of Covid-19.  A reputable travel insurance policy will cover you if the provider you purchase a trip from goes out of business, or if you need to return home due to something outside of your control. It’s recommended to purchase both your travel insurance and your trip on a credit card, too, if you have one for an added level of protection.

While nobody can travel currently, that doesn’t mean you can’t begin to plan your next adventure.  Just be smart and take precautions, and you’ll soon be jetting off on the trip of a lifetime.

Indian Breakfast

Sampling food around the world can be quite fun. Your may be the adventurer in your heart and not afraid of experimenting with food but remember your stomach may not be in synch with what your heart wants. While travelling it is important to make sure you take in only what suits your metabolism and which doesn’t result in you ending up being sick. Nobody wants that! It’s not that the food at home is always better and healthier than the food you get abroad. It’s just that you are not used to the preparation, the spices and moreover weather too plays its part. Hence to prevent any sort of distress like the commonly known ‘Traveller’s Tummy’ you need to have some background on the food that you are eating and of course common-sense to realize what to eat and what to avoid.

India is diverse not only in its culture but in its cuisines too. From Kashmir to Kanya kumari and Arunachal to Gujarat, there are thousands and thousands of cuisines and varieties available to amuse your taste buds. Take the Indian Breakfast for example; there are abundant options at your disposal. Come walk with me taking in the aromas of a few of the Typical Indian Breakfasts.

Typical Indian Breakfast

Depending on the part of the country you are visiting, the dishes available vary too. If you are on a tour of Northern India you would as a rule find poori sabji, poha and paranthas on the breakfast table among a hoard of others. Paranthas are Indian breads made up of pan frying whole wheat dough and are usually stuffed with boiled, mashed and flavoured potatoes, cauliflower, leafy vegetables or cheese. It is usually served with curd or butter or pickles. Poori, on the other hand, is made up of whole wheat flour or refined whole wheat flour dough rolled in small circles and deep fried in vegetable oil or clarified butter; generally served with potato based curries. Parantha and poori are slightly on the higher end of the calorie scale being oily in nature but are otherwise perfect for chilly mornings of the north accompanied with a hot cup of tea. Poha on the other hand is made up of flattened or beaten rice and good for digestion. For the calorie conscious Poha is definitely a great option. It is also a popular breakfast dish all around India often called by different names. It is healthy and will certainly not be a burden to your weight or digestion.

If it’s the south of India that is your destination then the morning aromas will be that of Idlis, Dosas, among other. The south Indian breakfast in general is healthy and of low calorie. Idlis are savoury cakes made up of steamed fermented black lentils and rice and usually two or three inches in diameter. Teamed with chutney or vegetable stew this is an ideal breakfast on the table. Dosas, on the other hand, are fermented pancakes made from rice batter and black lentils served with Vegetable stew again. It is rich in carbohydrates, contains no sugar or saturated fats and good on the body.

Apart from the dishes staple to the part of India you are visiting, you would also find bread and omelettes as a must on the breakfast table. Various Hotels also serve English breakfast along with Indian. In fact you could even find Italian and other Continental delicacies for breakfast depending on the city you are in and the hotel you are staying in.

Hence, breakfast in India wouldn’t be much of a problem in India. However, keep in mind there would be some dishes which would be high on oil and fat content. Considering it may be hot and humid in India, it is best to avoid those options unless your metabolism is trained for spicy breakfasts. Enjoy your Indian breakfast.

My new children’s book about life in India

I am excited for my new children’s book about India. It is called “Namaste World. I am Diya. My life in India.” This book is about a 6-year-old little girl called Diya who lives in Delhi with her mummy and daddy.

She narrates her life in India to other children. She talks about going to school in an auto rickshaw, going to temples, celebrating festivals and general life in India.

This book introduces Indian culture, religion, animals and other various things about India. Kids learn more when other kids tell them things.

Namaste world I am Diya book

This book is ideal for those who will be travelling to India with their children. It’s also ideal for those parents who wants to introduce multiculturalism to their children.

This book introduces India and Indian way of life to children. Children will begin to appreciate that there are kids just like them in other parts of the world.

Watch my video to learn more.

You can buy my book on all Amazon stores. Just search Amazon for – Namaste World. I am Diya.

USA https://www.amazon.com/Namaste-World-Diya-life-India/dp/B085KR53K1/

UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Namaste-World-Diya-life-India/dp/B085KR53K1/

Travel Safety Tips Every Student Should Know

Nothing ruins an adventure than getting defrauded or looted away from home. When traveling abroad, it is imperative that you be extra vigilant not to land in the hands of fraudsters and burglars. This post explores some of the safety precautions you can take as a student traveler.

But before we jump into the meat and potatoes of this topic, have you booked your visa yet? If you haven’t or if you are struggling to satisfy the many visa application requirements, it will help if you book a dummy flight itinerary with a reliable travel agency. Get a fake flight reservation instead of paying for an actual airplane ticket before your visa is approved.

Let’s now look at the travel security and safety considerations for traveling students:

1. Stay sober

Getting too drunk or high when you travel is too risky even for a young college student. Anything can be happening around (or to you) without your knowledge. It is okay to enjoy yourself and explore the local nightlife, but you have to do it responsibly. Always focus on what is happening around you – whether you are in a crowded tourist spot or walking along a street.

Eat healthy meals and drink sufficient water before you drink any alcohol. Keep away from hard drugs so you don’t get in trouble with the authorities. Also, note that most drug dealers are potentially nefarious who could have other ulterior motives. They can mislead, rob, or harm you, if not worse.

Eat healthy when traveling

2. Travel in numbers

The bigger your group is, the more the eyes are on your valuables and the more the bodies are available for self-defense. A group is also a much more intimidating physical presence, which helps ward off thieves. Safety aside, traveling as a group is relatively cheaper compared to solo visits. 

3. Write down emergency info

You are traveling to unknown neighborhoods- You must prepare for the unknown. Get the contact information for the local police, ambulance services, nearest embassy or consulate and other local emergency departments. You never know when a disaster will strike. This information is easily accessible on government websites- You just need to know where to look. 

4. Be vigilant with your money

Keep your finances in check while traveling. Set an emergency fund while traveling in case you run into some trouble and you need to book an earlier ticket home or you need emergency medical attention. You can save tons of cash by leveraging college student discounts when booking tours or accommodation.

Avoid being flashy with money as this can attract thieves and pickpockets. Don’t carry wallets in trouser back pockets- pickpockets mostly target those pockets! If you are backpacking, acquire a backpack that is fitted with small lockable pockets where your money and important documents are 100% inaccessible by pickpockets. Lastly, don’t keep all your money in one pocket.

Be vigilant with your money

5. Stay aware of your surrounding

Thieves, burglars, and pickpockets often target tourists who are distracted or disengaged from their surroundings. Try and blend in with the locals and their culture. Ensure that your appearance is almost similar to that of the local students- don’t look different especially in fashion.

As a student, you can learn a new language faster than older tourists. Learn as much as you can. Also, it will help if you could familiarize yourself with the maps of the host city even before leaving home.

6. Keep your important documents safe

Have photocopies of all your important documents, for example, the student ID, passport, and travel tickets in case of theft or loss. Leave some copies at home so that, if need be, your parents/friend can fax or mail it to you. Keep the others in your suitcase as spare copies. Also, avoid keeping all the important documents in the same wallet, or together with your petty cash. Having to remove the documents in public places every time you want to pay for something is a bit too risky.

In case your documents get stolen, report to the nearest police station as fast as you can. You never know what evils a fraudster will commit with your documents, which could precipitate unwanted legal processes and liabilities.

7. Do your research

Get to know your destination in depth before you arrive. You’re a student- doing your homework isn’t a new thing for you. Read reviews online and consult with local students in the safest neighborhoods. Avoid neighborhoods that have been reviewed to have high incidences of crime.

Conclusion

There are many ways of lowering your vulnerability when on the road. Of greatest importance, be composed, lock up your valuables, don’t mingle too much with strangers, and have a first aid kit in case of injuries.

You are now armed with safety travel tips; it’s time to get out and explore the world. Travel safely.